Marine / Memories of marine mammals sought for new project
UHI SHETLAND is launching a new project which aims to collate marine mammal memories of the past.
‘Marine Mammal Memories’ aims to help better understand the changing distributions, abundance and type of whales, dolphins and porpoise that were once seen around Shetland.
It is seeking information and anecdotes from the 1930s to the 2000s.
These will be compared to present day sightings, to help understand any changes that have been seen in local waters.
The research team is inviting anyone with memories to share to take part either by providing stories in person or by completing an online survey form.
Dr Emily Hague, marine mammal scientist at UHI Shetland, said: “Through building a better understanding Shetland’s past, we will gain context to the marine life we see around Shetland today. Were there always killer whales and humpback whales around?
“Have neesiks changed the bays where they gather in large groups? Are there any Shaetlan terms for these species that are no longer used?
“These are all questions we hope this project might shed some light on.
“We would be keen to hear from anyone that has a memory to share, all information big or small will contribute to our wider understanding.
“Whether it be that you remember commonly spotting certain species whilst walking your dog or hauling your creels, or that you remember a stranding or unusual sighting, we’d love to hear from you”.
Anyone interested in participating is asked to get in touch with the research team either by emailing marineplan.shetland@uhi.ac.uk or visiting the project website.
The project is being supported by the Scottish Marine Environmental Enhancement Fund, as well as the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund, the Shetland Community Benefit Fund and the EU Horizon Ocean Mission funded BLUE CONNECT project.
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